Introduction to Glider Flying > Introduction to Glider Flying > Medical Factors Associated with Glider Flying > Dehydration and Heatstroke

Dehydration is the term given to a critical loss of water from the body. The first noticeable effect of dehydration is fatigue, which in turn makes top physical and mental performance difficult, if not impossible. As a glider pilot, you often fly for a long period of time in hot summer temperatures or at high altitudes. This makes you particularly susceptible to dehydration for two reasons: the clear canopy offers no protection from the sun and, at high altitude, there are fewer air pollutants to diffuse the sun’s rays. The result is that you are continually exposed to heat that your body attempts to regulate by perspiration. If this fluid is not replaced, fatigue progresses to dizziness, weakness, nausea, tingling of hands and feet, abdominal cramps, and extreme thirst.

Heatstroke is a condition caused by any inability of the body to control its temperature. Onset of this condition may be recognized by the symp-toms of dehydration, but also has been known to be recognized only by complete collapse. To prevent these symptoms, it is recommended that you carry an ample supply of water and use it at frequent intervals on any long flight, whether you are thirsty or not. Wearing light colored, porous clothing and a hat provides protection from the sun, and keeping the cockpit well ventilated aids in dispelling excess heat.